International ProStar goes on regional tour

A new International ProStar prime mover and loaded tri-axle single trailer has embarked on a regional tour of Australia to showcase the model to prospective customers and to help grow awareness of the brand in the country’s heartland.

The ProStar Roadshow is a joint program between International, Australian distributor, IVECO and engine partner, Cummins, with representatives travelling with the truck and demonstrating its features and benefits while also allowing for evaluation opportunities.

The sleeper cab prime mover being used is equipped with the X15 Cummins powerplant rated at 550hp (410kW) and 1850 lb.-ft. (2508 Nm) and is matched to the venerable Eaton Roadranger 18-speed manual transmission.

While on the road however, the team will also be able to recalibrate the X15 to an optional 600hp (447kW) and 2050 lb.-ft. (2779Nm) for customers who may require additional power.

Other key features of the ProStar include a swept-back design with swooping nose, wrap around windshield, set-back A pillars and streamlined bumper and guards which allows the truck to more easily push through the air and therefore use less fuel. Compared to some more traditionally styled, flat fronted vehicles, the ProStar is claiming to be as much as 10 per cent more aerodynamic.

International says that an additional benefit of this modern design is outstanding visibility and an unobstructed view of the road from the driver’s seat, leading to increased safety.

IVECO’s Key Account Manager for the International range, Paul Dinicol, said the team was looking forward to the program and reconnecting with regional Australia where the brand has a strong legacy.

“International Trucks are well regarded in rural and regional areas particularly for their durability and functionality – many rural fleets are, in fact, still operating older International models,” Paul said.

“With this in mind, we want to take the latest generation International ProStar to our customers and show them that while these trucks still have all the proven components for longevity from Cummins, Eaton, Meritor, Hendrickson and the like, the latest product offering also adds efficiency, comfort and refinement to the mix.

“Furthermore, with a short bumper to back of cab, the ProStar range is ideal for a wide range of applications from tipper and dog to single trailer, B-double and even B-triple and two trailer roadtrain work,” Paul said.

The ProStar Roadshow is now underway and will take in Central and North Central Victoria before moving on to other states in 2019.